HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra has raised alarm over the region’s dwindling tourism, citing inadequate infrastructure, limited accessibility, and ineffective promotion strategies as the primary causes. In a meeting with BJP MP Rajiv Bharadwaj, association members expressed their concerns about Kangra losing its appeal compared to neighboring states like Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, which have successfully attracted tourists through better infrastructure and marketing.
Ashwani Bamba, president of the association, emphasized that Kangra’s potential as a premier tourist destination is hampered by poor railway connectivity and insufficient infrastructure. Despite being home to the majestic glacial peaks of the Dhauladhar range, limited accessibility to these natural wonders has deterred tourists. He highlighted the urgent need for upgrades to roads, parking facilities, and tourist amenities.
In their memorandum, the association suggested key measures to revive tourism in Kangra. One major demand was upgrading the narrow-gauge Kangra-Pathankot-Joginder Nagar railway line to broad gauge, which would integrate the region into the national railway network. Additionally, they called for the extension of the Vande Bharat Express train service from Amb to Kangra to boost connectivity and attract tourists.
Another proposal involved developing ropeways from Bhagsunag to Triund and further to the Inderhara Glacier, or from Lungta to Thathrana and the glacier. These ropeways, the association argued, would offer scenic and seamless access to the Dhauladhar ranges, appealing to both family tourists and adventure enthusiasts.
The association also stressed the need for creating essential infrastructure around popular sites like Bhagsunag Temple and Durgeshwar Temple in Naddi. They proposed constructing parking spaces, public conveniences, resting areas, and beautifying trails to waterfalls, which would enhance the overall tourist experience.
Criticizing the Dharamsala Smart City project for its failure to meet objectives, the association pointed out the city’s lack of basic amenities, including parking, sewerage systems, and recreational facilities. They urged the government to include Dharamsala in the Swadesh Darshan 2 Scheme to ensure sustainable development and holistic promotion of the region.
In a plea to Rajiv Bharadwaj, the association requested Rs 10 lakh from his MPLAD funds for constructing a retaining wall at Bhagsunag to address parking challenges and improve traffic management. They underscored the necessity of extensive national and international promotion of Kangra’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty to restore the region’s standing as a premier tourist destination.
